Questions and answers for the public and our members
If you have any questions that aren’t answered here, please contact us on this website or fill out the feedback form in the kitchen at McMartin House.
How can I join Perth Seniors Fellowship programs?
You can register by contacting us via phone, filling out our contact form or visiting McMartin House during office hours. We will provide you with the application form and information on how you can pay your membership fee.
Are activities suitable for all levels of mobility?
Yes, our programs are designed to accommodate varying mobility levels to ensure everyone can participate.
What’s ahead for McMartin House?
Perth Seniors Fellowship is in the process of updating its governance documents and policies. We are also looking to expand and grow our programming and activities. Adjustments are being made to emphasize the cultural heritage of McMartin House. While many of those decisions are made by the board of directors, other decisions are made by the Executive Director in consultation with the Chair of the board.
How can I help?
You can use our contact form on this website or the feedback form in the kitchen to give us constructive feedback. If you want to play a more active role, contact us about joining a committee (volunteers, property, funding, governance, etc.) or our board of directors (which will also require you to serve on a committee) as a volunteer – it’s a huge responsibility but one that can be very rewarding. Finally, we need operational volunteers to assist with managing McMartin House and running programs/events.
How will seniors/members be informed of changes?
Ahead of any upcoming changes that affect members, we will always reach out through your activity leaders to let you know about the changes and when they will take effect. This is your notice. If you have any questions or concerns, check the answer to the question “How can I help?”.
What is the historical significance of McMartin House?
McMartin House is a National Historic Site that serves as Perth Seniors Fellowship’s central meeting place, preserving local history. The building originally build in 1830 is now owned by the Ontario Heritage Trust who licences it to us for our use.
Is there a membership fee to participate?
There is an annual membership fee, and each programs or event may have an additional nominal charge to cover costs. The membership year runs from September to August (this is different from our fiscal year, which runs April to March).
Why are changes being made at McMartin House?
As a not-for-profit corporation and charity operating a seniors active living centre out of a National Historic Site, we are subject to the legal requirements of various governmental regulators (CRA, Public Guardian and Trustee, Ministry of Seniors (SALC) and the Ontario Heritage Trust). New legislation and updated policies by those regulator mean that we too have to make changes to stay in compliance. For example, we cannot provide benefits to a group that we do not provide to a large segment of the public. We are also obligated to showcase the heritage of the building. Despite the best efforts of past leadership, a lot is still to be done to stay in compliance. If we do not, the consequences could be catastrophic to the ability for Perth Seniors Fellowship to continue to operate.
Are directors and staff paid?
The Charities Accounting Act states that directors cannot be paid for their work as directors. Staff may be compensated. Currently only our Executive Director and Assistant Executive Director receive a salary of $1,000 a month, less deductions for taxes, EI and CPP. Staff and volunteers additionally volunteer a substantial amount of their time with seniors.
Bringing Seniors Together with Engaging Activities
Perth Seniors Fellowship enriches lives by fostering fellowship and friendship through meaningful programs that celebrate the heritage of McMartin House.
